Head and neck protection apparatus

ABSTRACT

Various protective apparatus are described. One protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user, a supporting element affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, the supporting element being configured to extend above the shoulder pad assembly and to encircle a portion of the opening, one or more clips arranged on the surface of the supporting element, and a helmet having one or more first bars that, when engaged within the one or more clips, secure the helmet to the supporting element.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/148,340, filed Jan. 6, 2014 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/102,843, filed May 6, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,621,672). This application is also related to and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 62/143,867, filed Apr. 7, 2015 and U.S. Patent Application No. 62/157,502, filed May 6, 2015. Each of the referenced applications is incorporated herein by reference in its respective entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present apparatus and methods relate generally to an improved head and/or neck protection apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Catastrophic injuries often occur in football, hockey, and other sports and activities as a result of excessive axial loading on the cervical spine and excessive force applied to the head. Such injuries are now occurring more frequently because participants in sporting and other physical activities are much larger and weigh considerably more than in previous years. In recent years, the careers (and lives) of numerous professional and amateur football players were shortened because of recurrent concussions, paraplegia and quadriplegia.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

In an aspect of the present disclosure, a protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user, a supporting element affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, the supporting element being configured to extend above the shoulder pad assembly and to encircle a portion of the opening, one or more clips arranged on the surface of the supporting element, and a helmet having one or more first bars that, when engaged within the one or more clips, secure the helmet to the supporting element.

In another aspect of the present disclosure a protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user, a wire having two ends, the wire arranged to surround the opening, each of the two ends being secured to a lever that is affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, one or more locking mechanisms affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, and a helmet having one or more bars configured for insertion into the one or more locking mechanisms, wherein, upon insertion of the one or more bars into the one or more locking mechanisms and upon a raising of the lever, the helmet is secured to the shoulder pad assembly.

In another aspect of the present disclosure a protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user, the shoulder pad assembly including a chest plate at the front of the shoulder pad assembly, a helmet configured for placement upon the shoulder pad assembly in a manner that surrounds the opening from above, a collar affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, wherein the collar, when positioned along at least a portion of a base of the helmet and secured to the chest plate, secures the helmet to the shoulder pad assembly.

In another aspect of the present disclosure a protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user, and a helmet capable of attachment to the shoulder pad assembly, the helmet having a front portion and a rear portion, wherein the front portion of the helmet, when lowered against the shoulder pads can be secured to the shoulder pad assembly via a locking mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects and implementations of the present disclosure will be understood more fully from the detailed description given below and from the accompanying drawings of various aspects and implementations of the disclosure, which, however, should not be taken to limit the disclosure to the specific aspects or implementations, but are for explanation and understanding only.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a variation of a head and neck protection apparatus.

FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of a variation of a head and neck protection apparatus having a locking mechanism in the form of a latch.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a variation of head and neck protection apparatus having a protrusion/slot rotatable locking mechanism.

FIG. 4 illustrates another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus including a helmet in the form of a clear dome.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate front and side views of another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus including a helmet in the form of a clear dome

FIG. 6 illustrates another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus including a helmet in the form of a cage.

FIG. 7 illustrates a head and neck protection apparatus including a helmet in the form of a dome in use showing the distribution of force during a head-to-head collision.

FIG. 8 illustrates another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus.

FIG. 9 illustrates a variation of an inner cap for use with a head and neck protection apparatus.

FIGS. 10-28 illustrate various other aspects of the head and/or neck protection apparatus such as are described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects and implementations of the present disclosure are directed to an improved head and/or neck protection apparatus and related technologies.

As described herein, in one variation a head and/or neck protection apparatus may include shoulder pads and a helmet. In certain implementations, the shoulder pads include a central opening for receiving a user's neck. A collar may extend from the periphery of the central opening or the collar may be positioned at or around the periphery of the central opening. The helmet may surround a user's head while remaining spaced apart from the user's head. The helmet may be removably connected or fastened to the collar or shoulder pads. The helmet may be connected, fastened or otherwise secured to the collar or shoulder pads such that the helmet, while secured, cannot move relative to the shoulder pads and a force applied to the helmet may be distributed circumferentially or peripherally to the collar and transferred to the shoulder pads, shoulders, chest and/or back of a user.

As also described herein, in another variation a helmet apparatus is provided. In certain implementations the helmet may be used with shoulder pads (that may remain underneath a user's jersey) to protect the user's head and neck from an impact force. The helmet may include a dome portion configured to surround the user's head while remaining spaced apart from the user's head. The helmet may have a bottom periphery surrounding an opening in the helmet for receiving the user's head. The bottom periphery of the helmet may be substantially lockable to the shoulder pads such that when locked or otherwise secured the helmet, while secured, cannot move relative to the shoulder pads. A force applied to the helmet may be distributed to the bottom periphery of the helmet and/or to the shoulder pads. The helmet may be removable from the shoulder pads by the user without removing the user's jersey.

As also described herein, in another variation a method for dispersing or distributing a force applied to a helmet to the shoulders, back and/or chest of a user is provided. Shoulder pads having a central opening for receiving a user's neck and/or head, and optionally having a collar extending from the periphery of the central opening or positioned at or around the periphery of the central opening are provided. The shoulder pads may be applied to the shoulders of a user. A helmet may be securely fastened or connected to a collar and/or the shoulder pads such that the helmet cannot move relative to the shoulder pads. Once connected to a collar and/or the shoulder pads, the helmet may surround but remain spaced apart from the user's head such that the user can turn their head, e.g., in any direction within the helmet. A force applied to the helmet may be circumferentially or peripherally distributed or dispersed to a collar and/or the shoulder pads, thereby transferring the force to the shoulder pads, shoulders, chest, and/or back of the user.

FIG. 1 illustrates one variation of head and neck protection apparatus 10. The protection apparatus 10 may include shoulder pads 12. The shoulder pads 12 include a central opening 14 or aperture through which a wearer or user's neck and/or head may pass. In certain variations, the shoulder pads 12 may include a right shoulder cover, left shoulder cover, a chest cover, and/or a back cover. Optionally, the chest and/or back covers may extend over substantially the entire torso. Optionally, the right and left shoulder covers may extend to cover any portion of the arms.

As shown in FIG. 1, in certain variations, a collar 16 may extend from the periphery of the central opening 14, e.g., upward from the periphery of the central opening. The apparatus 10 may also include a helmet 18. The helmet 18 may surround but remain spaced apart from the user's head. In certain implementations the helmet 18 can be configured not to engage directly with the user's head, allowing the user to move their head independently from the helmet and fully in any direction within the helmet 18. The helmet 18 may be removably connected or fastened to the collar 16. In certain implementations, when the helmet 18 is securely connected, fastened, locked or affixed to the collar 16, the helmet cannot move relative to the shoulder pads 12. Once connected, the helmet 18 and shoulder pads 12 may act as a single unit with no or little mobility between the helmet 18 and shoulder pads 16. The collar 16 may include a variety of locking mechanisms to securely fasten or connect the helmet 18 to the shoulder pads 12.

FIG. 2 illustrates one variation of a head and neck protection apparatus 20 including a collar 26 having a locking mechanism in the form of a latch 24. The collar 26 may be expanded or contracted. In use, when the latch 24 is in an opened position, the helmet 28 may be positioned inside the collar 26, e.g., by lowering the helmet onto the user's head and into the collar, as indicated by arrow ‘A.’ For example, the helmet 28 may include a base 29, which can include a bottom lip or bottom periphery surrounding the opening in the helmet for receiving a user's head, which may be inserted or received within the collar 26. Once the helmet 28 is positioned inside the collar 26, the latch 24 is closed, securely locking the helmet 28 to the shoulder pads 22. In certain implementations, when in the locked position, the helmet 28 cannot move relative to the collar 26 or shoulder pads 22. Optionally, one or more locking mechanisms may be positioned on the collar or on another portion of the apparatus. For example, multiple locking mechanisms (e.g., latches, snaps, etc.) may be provided for locking or affixing the helmet to the shoulder pads. A locking mechanism may snap into place and may be in the form of a variety of designs or configurations. For example, a latch similar to a latch used on ski boots may be utilized to lock the helmet to the collar and/or shoulder pads.

FIG. 3 illustrates another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus 30 including a collar 36 having another variation of a locking mechanism. The collar 36 includes one or more slots 31 or openings located along an inner surface 33 of the collar 36. A helmet 38 is provided. The helmet 38 includes one or more protrusions 34 or tabs located along an outer surface 35 of the base 39, bottom lip or bottom periphery of the helmet 38. In another variation, the arrangement of protrusions and slots or openings may be reversed where the collar may include one or more protrusions or tabs located along an outer surface of the collar and the helmet may include one or more slots or openings located along an inner surface of the base or bottom lip or periphery of the helmet.

In use, the helmet 38 is inserted or pushed down into the collar 36 (as indicated by arrow ‘A’ in FIG. 3), such that the base 39 is received or inserted within the collar 36. The protrusions 34 are aligned with the slots 31 and inserted into the slots 31. The helmet 38 is then rotated (as indicated by arrow ‘B’ in FIG. 3), rotating the base 39 (clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on the design or configuration of the slots) relative to the collar 36. Rotation of the helmet causes the protrusions to slide and lock within the slots 31. As a result, the helmet 38 is securely locked or fastened to the shoulder pads 32 and the helmet 38 cannot move relative to the collar or shoulder pads 32.

In another variation, the protrusions or tabs may be configured to snap into slots or openings in a collar or helmet, locking the helmet to the collar and shoulder pads.

In certain variations, the helmet may include an o-ring or a gasket positioned at the base or bottom lip or periphery of the helmet. The o-ring or gasket may provide a tight locking seal between the helmet and the collar to securely fasten and/or lock the helmet to the shoulder pads.

In another variation, the collar or shoulder pads may include an o-ring or a gasket, which provides a tight locking seal between the helmet and collar and/or shoulder pads. Optionally, the collar, shoulder pads and/or the helmet may include an o-ring, gasket or other component or mechanism for providing a sealing engagement, lock or seal between the collar and/or shoulder pads and helmet.

FIG. 4 illustrates another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus 40 including a helmet in the form of a clear dome 48 having a substantially conical shape or a shape or design where the circumference of the dome 48 increases in size from the crown of the dome 48 to the base or bottom of the dome 48. The base or bottom periphery of the dome 48 contacts the shoulder pads 42 and/or attaches the dome to the shoulder pads 42 or to a collar optionally on the shoulder pads. The entire or substantially the entire base or bottom periphery of the dome may be in contact with the shoulder pads and/or a collar on the shoulder pads. Once the dome 58 and shoulder pads 52 are securely connected, force applied to the dome 48 may be equally or substantially equally distributed or dispersed circumferentially or peripherally from the base, bottom periphery or bottom of the dome 48 to and/or over the shoulder pads 42 (and/or a collar or other extension of the shoulder pads), transferring the force to the shoulders, back and/or chest of the user.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate front and side views, respectively, of another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus 50 including a helmet in the form of a clear dome 58 having a substantially spherical shape or a shape or design where the circumference of the dome 58 decreases in size from the middle of the dome to the base of the dome 58. The base or bottom periphery of the dome 58 contacts the shoulder pads 52 and/or attaches the dome to the shoulder pads 52 and/or to a collar optionally on the shoulder pads. The entire or substantially the entire base or bottom periphery of the dome may be in contact with the shoulder pads and/or a collar on the shoulder pads. Once the dome 58 and shoulder pads 52 are securely connected, force applied to the dome 58 may be equally or substantially equally distributed or dispersed circumferentially or peripherally from the base, bottom periphery or bottom of the dome 58 to and/or over the shoulder pads 52 (and/or a collar or other extension of the shoulder pads), transferring the force to the shoulders, back and/or chest of the user.

FIG. 6 illustrates another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus 60 including a helmet in the form of a cage 68. The cage 68 may be made from a variety of materials suitable for withstanding an impact or loading force, e.g., metal, plastic, etc. Optionally, the cage may be wrapped in rubber or encased in practically any other padded-type material, such as the materials used to construct facemasks for helmets. The cage may be substantially conical or spherical in shape, or may be any other shape suitable to be worn on the head of a user. The base or bottom periphery of the cage 68 contacts the shoulder pads 62 and/or attaches the cage 68 to the shoulder pads 62 or to a collar optionally on the shoulder pads. The entire or substantially the entire base or bottom periphery of the cage may be in contact with the shoulder pads and/or a collar on the shoulder pads. Once the cage 68 and shoulder pads 62 are securely connected, force applied to the dome 68 may be equally or substantially equally distributed or dispersed circumferentially or peripherally from the base, bottom periphery or bottom of the dome 68 to and/or over the shoulder pads 62 (and/or a collar or other extension of the shoulder pads), transferring the force to the shoulders, back and/or chest of the user.

FIG. 7 illustrates the head and neck protection apparatus 50 in use. During a head to head collision, the force applied to each dome 58 may be equally distributed or dispersed circumferentially or peripherally from the base, bottom or bottom periphery of each dome 58 to the respective shoulder pads 52 (and/or optionally to a collar on the shoulder pads) of the apparatus, transferring the force to the shoulders, back and/or chest of the user.

FIG. 8 illustrates another variation of a head and neck protection apparatus 70 including a dome 78 or helmet and shoulder pads 72 where the dome 78 and shoulder pads 72 are constructed as a single unit such that the dome is immobile relative to the shoulder pads 72. The dome 78 and shoulder pads 72 may be a one-piece construction where the dome 78 is molded in conjunction with the shoulder pads 72. For example, the dome 78 may be molded completely from plastic or other suitable material as a part of the shoulder pads 72. The dome 78 may be clear or transparent allowing unobstructed visibility for the user.

The dome 78 may also include a face mask 73, e.g., a rubberized and/or steel or metal facemask 73, which may be built into an opening 75 in the front of the dome 78. The face mask may be open or have openings, allowing for ventilation and air such that the apparatus 70 would be tolerable during use, e.g., during a sporting event or game. The open facemask may allow user access to their nose or mouth, e.g., to drink or spit. The open facemask may, for example, reduce claustrophobia for users and may improve a user's ability to communicate signals or commands and/or hear communications from others. Ear holes 74 may be provided in the sides of the dome 78. The opening 75, ear holes 74 and/or the facemask 73 may help facilitate breathing and communication by the user, e.g., with teammates, officials or other individuals, when the user is wearing the head and neck protection apparatus 70.

Because the dome 78 and shoulder pads 72 form a single unit, a user would position the dome 78 and shoulder pads 72 onto their body at the same time, and the user would be required to remove the shoulder pads 72 in order to remove the dome 78 and vice versa. In certain implementations, the dome 78 may not be removable from the user without also removing the shoulder pads as the components are part of a single unit or construct.

In certain implementations, once in position on the user, the dome 78 may surround but remain spaced apart from the user's head, such that, for example, the dome 78 does not contact and/or squeeze the user's head. The dome 78 may allow for a wide range of motion of the head, where the head of the user is in spaced relation to the inside surfaces of the dome, providing a user with full or substantially full mobility or motion of the head. This may allow a user to better access their nose or mouth, e.g., to drink or spit. It may reduce claustrophobia for users and may improve the user's ability to communicate signals or commands and/or hear communications from others.

Force applied to the dome 78 may be equally or substantially equally distributed or dispersed circumferentially or peripherally from the dome 78 to the shoulder pads 72 (and/or a collar or other extension of the shoulder pads), transferring the force to the shoulders, back and/or chest of the user.

In the case of a neck, head or other injury, the domes and helmets according to any of the variations described herein may be removed from a user in a manner that would avoid injury or be less likely to cause injury or further injury to the neck, spine or head. In contrast, for example, removing a traditional football helmet from a user's head requires significant force which could potentially move the cervical vertebrae and further injure the spinal cord. The domes and helmets according to any of the variations described herein may be removed without contacting the user's head or neck or without moving the vertebrae or spinal cord or without causing injury or harm or further injury or harm to the user. The domes or helmets may be removed from the user in a manner that would reduce or substantially reduce the likelihood of causing further injury to the user during the dome or helmet removal process or in a manner that would avoid injury. Similarly, the shoulder pads or the head and neck protection apparatus as a whole may be removed from a user in a manner that would reduce the chance of injury or avoid injury to the spine, neck or head.

Any of the head and neck protection apparatus described herein may be worn without a separate cap or helmet positioned on the user's head, within the dome or helmet of the head and neck protection apparatus. In certain implementations, the various head and neck protection apparatus described herein can surround but remain spaced apart from the user's head, making it unnecessary for the user to wear a separate cap on the user's head to protect the user's head from injury due to helmet impact.

FIG. 9 illustrates a variation of an inner cap 80 which may optionally be worn with any variation of a head and neck protection apparatus as described herein. The cap 80 may include a chinstrap 82 or other latching or fastening mechanism for affixing or securing the cap 80 to the user's head. The cap 80 may be worn on a user's head, within a dome or helmet of a head and neck protection apparatus. The cap 80 may be made from rubber, plastic or other suitable material for absorbing or dampening any force to the head. The cap 80 may be padded and/or may include ear holes 84. The cap 80 may help prevent or reduce cranial injury or concussion to the head if the head were to somehow come into contact with the inner surface of a dome or helmet. Optionally, a logo or number may be placed on the cap or the dome or helmet.

In use, the various head and neck protection apparatus described herein may protect the user from injury by dispersing, distributing or redistributing a force applied to a helmet, e.g., an axial loading force or impact force, to or over a base, bottom or bottom surface of the helmet, or bottom periphery or circumference of the helmet surrounding an opening in the helmet, or other portion of the helmet, and from the base, bottom, bottom surface, bottom periphery or circumference of the helmet, or other portion of the helmet to or over a collar or a locking mechanism of the collar and/or shoulder pads, or over the circumference or periphery of a collar and/or shoulder pads, transferring the force to the shoulders, back and/or chest of the user. The force may be distributed or dispersed circumferentially or peripherally from the helmet to a collar or to a locking mechanism of the collar and/or to the shoulder pads. In certain variations, the connection between the helmet and a collar or shoulder pads may be such that every point or substantially every point along the bottom periphery, bottom surface or base of the helmet is in contact with the collar or the shoulder pads. In certain variations, when a force is applied to the helmet, the interaction or contact between the bottom periphery, surface or base of the helmet and a collar or shoulder pads may maximize the area over which a force applied to the helmet is dispersed or distributed and may result in the force being circumferentially or peripherally distributed or dispersed over or to the base or bottom periphery of the helmet and over a collar and/or shoulder pads or over the circumference or periphery of a collar and/or shoulder pads and/or over the entire or substantially entire shoulder area, back, chest and/or torso, rather than being transferred, focused or channeled solely to the users neck or to or solely to localized points on the user's head or body. In certain variations, the force to the helmet may be equally or substantially equally distributed or dispersed to the bottom periphery or circumference, bottom surface or base of the helmet and from the bottom periphery or circumference, bottom surface or base of the helmet to and over the periphery or circumference of a collar and/or the shoulder pads, ultimately transferring the force to the user's shoulders, chest, and/or back. The design of the head and neck apparatus may provide a dampening and/or reduction of the impact to the user's head, neck and/or spine from the force applied to the helmet. In certain variations, a force may be dispersed or distributed over the entire or at least a portion of the bottom periphery or circumference, bottom surface or base of the helmet, the periphery or circumference of a collar, shoulder pads, shoulders, chest, and/or back.

In one variation, a method for dispersing or distributing a force applied to a helmet to the shoulders of a user includes providing shoulder pads having a central opening for receiving a user's neck and a collar extending upward from or positioned at the periphery of the central opening. The base or bottom periphery of the helmet may be securely fastened to the collar such that the helmet cannot move relative to the shoulder pads and the helmet is configured to surround but remain spaced apart from the user's head allowing the user to turn their head fully in any direction within the helmet. A force applied to the helmet may be equally or substantially equally distributed or dispersed circumferentially or peripherally from a bottom periphery or base of the helmet to the collar, thereby transferring the force to the shoulders, back and/or chest of a user. The collar may include a locking mechanism for securely fastening the helmet to the shoulder pads. A base or bottom surface of the helmet or bottom periphery surrounding the helmet opening or the collar or shoulder pads may include an o-ring or a gasket that provides a locking seal between the helmet and the collar.

The helmet may be securely fastened to the collar by opening a latch on the collar to expand the collar and inserting a portion of the helmet into the expanded collar. The latch is then closed to securely fasten the helmet to the collar and to the shoulder pads. In another variation, a plurality of protrusions located along an outer surface of a base or bottom portion or bottom periphery of the helmet may be inserted into a plurality of slots located along an inner surface of the collar. The helmet is rotated such that the helmet base or bottom portion of the helmet is rotated relative to the collar, locking the protrusions within the slots. The helmet may be in form of a clear dome or a cage. Optionally, in certain variations, the base or bottom periphery or other portion of the helmet may be securely fastened or attached to the shoulder pads such that the helmet cannot move relative to the shoulder pads and the helmet is configured to surround but remain spaced apart from the user's head, and the shoulder pads may not include a collar.

The helmets, e.g., the various domes or cages described herein, may be made from a variety of materials suitable for withstanding force or tremendous force, e.g., axially loaded forces, impact forces, or other forces, without cracking or shattering. Materials include but are not limited to Plexiglas, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), fiberglass, metal, and hard plastics. The domes may be completely or at least partially clear to allow for visibility by the user in any direction. The domes may include holes or slits for ventilation, hearing and/or speaking. The cage may be metallic and/or may be wrapped or encased in rubber, padding material, resilient material or other material suitable for absorbing shock and/or softening or dampening the impact to the cage and to the user. The helmets also allow for improved visualization of the players faces for spectators and television coverage.

As described herein, in certain implementations the helmet may be spaced apart from the head providing space around the entire or substantially entire head of the user such that the head does not contact the inner surface of the helmet when the helmet is securely fastened to the shoulder pads. The helmet may allow for complete or a wide range of motion of the head. Indeed, the head of the user may be in spaced relation to the inside surfaces of the helmet, providing a user with full or substantially full mobility of motion of the head and good all-around visibility. Because the user's head may not contact the helmet, the helmet prevents concussive affects from a helmet to helmet collision or blow.

The base, bottom periphery or bottom of a helmet in any of the variations described herein may surround the opening of the helmet for receiving the user's head. The base or bottom periphery of a helmet may extend about the rear, front and/or sides of a bottom or bottom surface of a helmet. In certain variations, the base, bottom surface or bottom periphery of the helmet and/or the collar may have a variety of shapes, e.g., annular or circular. In certain variations, the base, bottom or bottom periphery of the helmet or other portion of the helmet may be attached or connected to the collar by being received within the collar. In other variations, the base, bottom or bottom periphery of the helmet or other portion of the helmet may surround the collar. Optionally, the base or bottom or bottom periphery of the helmet and the collar may be concentrically arranged or connected. In certain variations, once the helmet is locked to the shoulder pads, minimal mobility between the helmet and shoulder pads may remain. In certain variations, the collar may extend upward from a periphery of a central opening in the shoulder pads or the collar may be positioned at or around a periphery of the centrally opening or on a surface or other portion of the shoulder pads. In other variations, the base or bottom or bottom periphery of the helmet or other portion of the helmet may be attached or connected directly to the shoulder pads and the shoulder pads may not have a collar.

In certain variations, the shoulder pads may include padding to soften or dampen the impact to the musculature of the shoulders, chest and/or back. Padding may extend down as far as the waist to provide protection to the user's rib cage, lower back and abdomen. The shoulder pads may include straps, strings or buckles to allow for adjustment to fit users of various sizes and to secure the pads to the user.

FIG. 10 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the head and neck protection apparatus described herein (and/or one or more elements thereof). For example, FIG. 10 depicts various types of shoulder pads (1002), such as may be secured in any number of ways. in certain implementations, laces/Velcro fastener(s) (1005) can be used to secure the base of the helmet 1003A to the collar and/or shoulder pads. Such fasteners (e.g., Velcro fasteners), which may be affixed to the shoulder pads, the collar, and/or the helmet, can securely fasten such items when in use, while also enabling custom fitting and quick/convenient release (e.g., by cutting the laces/fasteners) in case of emergency. As also shown in FIG. 10, overlapping segments of the shoulder pads can be latched or otherwise attached to one another (1015) in order to further secure the helmet (1003B) to the collar and/or shoulder pads (e.g., in addition to and/or in lieu of laces/fasteners). Additionally, in certain implementations an adjustable fastening component (1025), such as a breastplate\chest plate that fastens to the shoulder pads, can further secure the helmet (1003C) to the collar and/or shoulder pads. Moreover, as described below, in certain implementations a zipper can further secure the helmet to the collar and/or shoulder pads (e.g., as shown in FIG. 12). Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 10, the described head and neck protection apparatus can incorporate helmets 1003A-1003H having various shapes, contours, designs and/or dimensions. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 10, in certain implementations the described head and neck protection apparatus can incorporate communication elements, such as a microphone 1006, speaker 1008, etc., which may be attached to/embedded within the described helmet, collar, shoulder pads, etc. (as well as embedded or corresponding communication interfaces, e.g., radio transmitters/receivers to enable such communication), e.g., in order to enable the wearer/user to communicate with others while wearing the helmet (e.g., as described in greater detail below, e.g., with respect to FIGS. 24 and 28).

It should also be noted that, in certain implementations, the described collar and/or shoulder pads can include and/or otherwise incorporate various shock absorbing materials, elements, etc., such as in order to absorb force received at the surface of the helmet, such that as little of such force as possible is passed on to the shoulder pads and/or body of the user. For example, as depicted in FIG. 10, in certain implementations collar 1020 can be composed of and/or otherwise incorporate or include shock-absorbing material (e.g., rubber, Styrofoam, etc.). In other implementations collar 1020 can be composed of and/or otherwise incorporate or include shock-absorbing elements (e.g., springs, etc.). In doing so, the force/impact initially received at the helmet 1003 can be absorbed/dissipated as much as possible prior to being transferred to the user's body (e.g., shoulders).

FIG. 11A depicts further additional exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus. As shown, the shoulder pads 1102 can be fitted/designed with a latch mechanism 1104 which can function to secure the helmet/collar in place (e.g., via wires 1106, a latch 1104, and a lever 1108 as shown). As shown, such a protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly 1102 having an opening for a neck of a user, a wire 1106 having two ends, the wire arranged to surround the opening, each of the two ends being secured to a lever 1108 that is affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, one or more locking mechanisms 1104 affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, and a helmet having one or more bars configured for insertion into the one or more locking mechanisms, wherein, upon insertion of the one or more bars 1105 into the one or more locking mechanisms and upon a raising of the lever, the helmet is secured to the shoulder pad assembly. For example, a wire or wires (e.g., metal wires) can be arranged around the collar and/or shoulder pads and threaded through latch mechanisms 1104, as shown in FIG. 11A. The ends of the wire(s) can be attached to lever 1108 such that when the lever is raised (that is, the end of the lever not attached to the shoulder pads is brought close to/in contact with the shoulder pads, e.g., along a hinge, as shown), the wire(s) are tightened around the collar, thereby securing the helmet to the collar and/or the shoulder pads. When the lever is lowered, the wires are loosened, thereby enabling the helmet to be released. Additionally, a safety patch or cover 1110 can be provided which can be used to cover the latch mechanism and thereby further secure the fit of the helmet/collar (e.g., via Velcro). Additionally, straps 1112 (as secured via Velcro or any other such affixing element, such as snaps, a buckle—such as buckle 1322 as depicted in FIG. 12, etc.) can pass from the back of the shoulder pads to the front (e.g., oriented under the wearer's arms, as shown) in order to further secure the head and neck protection apparatus. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 11A, in certain implementations the helmet can include a hole or opening 1114 towards the top of the helmet which can both provide ventilation and also enable the helmet to be easily removed (e.g., by grabbing the helmet by the hold and pulling it away from the collar/shoulder pads).

FIG. 11B depicts further aspects of the referenced exemplary latch mechanisms (such as those depicted in FIG. 11A) in greater detail. As shown in FIG. 11B, the collar 1116 (and/or the base of the helmet) can be equipped with or otherwise incorporate bars or other such elements 1105 such as may be arranged in various locations around the collar (e.g., at four corners) in a manner such that another element (e.g., a latch) can securely surround the bar. Such elements 1105 can be configured to be inserted into latches which may be arranged on the shoulder pads (e.g., in locations as shown in FIG. 11A, e.g., two latches in front and two in back). The latches can include a locking mechanism such that when the collar or helmet is lowered into the locking mechanism, the two pieces of the locking mechanism 1118A and 1118B can surround and secure bars 1105 (e.g., on the four corners of the collar), thereby securing the helmet. Additionally, when a latch mechanism on the shoulder pads is pulled (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11A), the two pieces of the locking mechanism 1110A and 1110B can separate (via wire 1106), thereby allowing elements 1105 to be released and enabling the collar/helmet to be removed from the shoulder pads.

FIG. 12 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more elements thereof). As shown, in certain implementations such a protective apparatus can include a shoulder pad assembly 1302 having an opening for a neck of a user, a supporting element 1310 affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, the supporting element being configured to extend above the shoulder pad assembly and to encircle a portion of the opening, one or more clips 1308 arranged on the surface of the supporting element, and a helmet 1304 having one or more first bars that, when engaged within the one or more clips, secure the helmet to the supporting element. For example, FIG. 12 depicts shoulder pads 1302 that can be configured/outfitted with a supporting element (1310) such as a roll cage. In certain implementations, such a supporting element may be affixed to the shoulder area (thereby rising above the shoulder pads) and surround the sides and/or rear of the wearer's head, as shown. As is also shown in FIG. 12, in certain implementations a modified helmet 1304 can be utilized, such as a helmet configured to cover the top portion of the wearer's head, e.g., above the supporting element (that is, above where the supporting element ends). Such a helmet can, for example, be configured to cover the top/back of the wearer's head until (approximately) the area of the wearer's ears, as shown (at which point the helmet attaches to the supporting element, as described). In certain implementations, the helmet 1304 can be secured or attached to supporting element 1310 via one or more clips 1308 which are described and depicted in greeted detail in relation to FIG. 13. As also shown in FIG. 12, in certain implementations a padded cap 1306 can provide additional protection to the wearer.

FIG. 13 depicts further aspects/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus as depicted in FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 13, one or more side clip(s) or latches 1308 can be arranged around supporting element 1310, e.g., on the two sides of the supporting element, as shown. Such clips 1308 can be anchored to the supporting element and can be used to secure the helmet to the supporting element, while also enabling quick release of the helmet from the supporting element/shoulder pads. As shown, an exemplary clip 1308 can include a hook 1312 and lever 1314 that are arranged such that the lever, when raised, can raise the hook 1312 and enable it to be raised above a bar 1316A which can be positioned in a corresponding location on helmet 1304 (e.g., on the two sides). When lowered, the lever lowers the hook 1312 such that it secures the bar 1316A, and thereby the helmet 1304, to the supporting element 1310 (thereby securing it to the shoulder pads 1302).

As also shown in FIG. 13, in certain implementations, in addition to securing the helmet 1304 to the supporting element 1310 via one or more clips (such as may be positioned on the sides of the helmet), the rear of the helmet can be secured to the supporting element via an overhang 1318 which can protrude or extend from the back of the supporting element 1310, thereby creating a slot 1320 as shown. Helmet 1304 can be configured/arranged with a bar 1316B (e.g., in a corresponding location, e.g., on the inner rear of the helmet) such that the bar 1316B can be inserted into the slot 1320 provided by the overhang 1318 in a manner that secures the rear of the helmet to the supporting element 1310.

FIG. 14 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more of the elements thereof). For example, FIG. 14 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) 1402. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, in certain implementations an inner skull cap/pad 1404 can be worn around the wearer's head in conjunction with the outer helmet 1402. Additionally, as described above and depicted in relation to FIG. 10, various communication devices, e.g., a microphone, a speaker, and/or various other interfaces/sensors can be incorporated/embedded within the helmet, skull cap, shoulder pads, etc. Additionally, in certain implementations the various holes, perforations, contours, etc. 1406, can be incorporated with respect to the surface of the helmet, such as in order to provide airflow, etc., to the wearer and /or to make the helmet more aerodynamic. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 14, in certain implementations one or more clips 1408A can be used to attach helmet 1402 (e.g., the base of the helmet) and/or the collar to the shoulder pads, as shown. Clips 1408B can also be used to secure/fasten the shoulder pads themselves (e.g., one side of the shoulder pad to another).

At this juncture it should be noted that various other elements, components, sensors, interfaces, and/or devices can also be incorporated/implemented within the helmets, pads, etc., described herein. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, various biometric sensors 1410 can be arranged throughout the pads and/or helmet in order to measure impact, stress, pressure, etc., such as during a game or match. In doing so, injuries can be more accurately monitored/identified. Additionally, various sensors can monitor various vital signs and/or other biological phenomena, e.g., breathing, heart rate, pulse, oxygen levels, etc. Moreover, in certain implementations various display technologies can be employed, such as ‘heads up displays’ and/or augmented reality technologies/devices. For example, one or more projection devices can project information onto the surface of the helmet such that the wearer can see it while wearing it (e.g., strategy information, score, game time, location of targets, etc.). The referenced sensors, interfaces, etc., can be further connected to or in communication with a computer device 1412, such as may be embedded or incorporated within the described head and neck protection apparatus, thereby enabling information from the referenced sensors to be transmitted to other users, services, etc., and for content/feedback to be provided back to the wearer of the helmet, e.g., in real time.

In certain implementations, the described functions can be implemented with respect to the described head and neck protection apparatus by integrating and/or otherwise incorporating various technologies, such as electronic and/or computing devices. Examples of such devices are depicted in FIGS. 23 and 28 and described herein. For example, FIG. 28 depicts a device 102 such as may be integrated with the described head and neck protection apparatus described herein (e.g., helmet 2402 as depicted in FIG. 24 and described herein). Device 102 can also include and/or incorporate various sensors and/or communications interfaces. FIG. 28 depicts one exemplary implementation of such a device 102. As shown in FIG. 28, device 102 can include a control circuit 240 (e.g., a motherboard) which is operatively connected to various hardware and/or software components that serve to enable various operations, such as those described herein. Control circuit 240 can be operatively connected to processing device 210 and memory 220. Processing device 210 serves to execute instructions for software that can be loaded into memory 220. Processing device 210 can be a number of processors, a multi-processor core, or some other type of processor, depending on the particular implementation. Further, processing device 210 can be implemented using a number of heterogeneous processor systems in which a main processor is present with secondary processors on a single chip. As another illustrative example, processing device 210 can be a symmetric multi-processor system containing multiple processors of the same type.

Memory 220 and/or storage 290 may be accessible by processing device 210, thereby enabling processing device 210 to receive and execute instructions stored on memory 220 and/or on storage 290. Memory 220 can be, for example, a random access memory (RAM) or any other suitable volatile or non-volatile computer readable storage medium. In addition, memory 220 can be fixed or removable. Storage 290 can take various forms, depending on the particular implementation. For example, storage 290 can contain one or more components or devices. For example, storage 290 can be a hard drive, a flash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, or some combination of the above. Storage 290 also can be fixed or removable.

As shown in FIG. 2, storage 290 can store content presentation application 292. In certain implementations, content presentation application 292 can be, for example, instructions, an ‘app,’ etc., that can be loaded into memory 220 and/or executed by processing device 210, in order to enable content to be provided/presented (e.g., in an audio format, e.g., via a speaker, visually, e.g., via a heads up display projected on the helmet surface, etc.) to a user of the device (e.g., a wearer of a helmet), as described herein.

A communication interface 250 is also operatively connected to control circuit 240. Communication interface 250 can be any interface (or multiple interfaces) that enables communication between device 102 and one or more external devices, machines, platforms, systems, and/or elements. Communication interface 250 can include (but is not limited to) a modem, a Network Interface Card (NIC), an integrated network interface, a radio frequency transmitter/receiver (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular, NFC), a satellite communication transmitter/receiver, an infrared port, a USB connection, or any other such interfaces for connecting device 102 to other computing devices, systems, platforms, and/or communication networks such as the Internet. Such connections can include a wired connection or a wireless connection (e.g. 802.11) though it should be understood that communication interface 250 can be practically any interface that enables communication to/from the control circuit 240 and/or the various components described herein.

At various points during the operation of described technologies, device 102 can communicate with one or more other devices, systems, platforms, servers, etc. Such devices, systems, platforms, servers, etc., can transmit and/or receive data to/from the user device 102, thereby enhancing the operation of the described technologies, such as is described in detail herein. It should be understood that the referenced devices, systems, platforms, servers, etc., can be in direct communication with device 102, indirect communication with device 102, constant/ongoing communication with device 102, periodic communication with device 102, and/or can be communicatively coordinated with device 102.

Also connected to and/or in communication with control circuit 240 of user device 104 are one or more sensors 245A-245N (collectively, sensors 245). Sensors 245 can be various components, devices, and/or receivers that can be incorporated/integrated within and/or in communication with user device 102. Sensors 245 can be configured to detect one or more stimuli, phenomena, or any other such inputs, described herein. Examples of such sensors 245 include, but are not limited to, an accelerometer 245A, a gyroscope 245B, a GPS receiver 245C, a microphone 245D, a magnetometer 245E, a camera 245F, a light sensor 245G, a temperature sensor 245H, an altitude sensor 2451, a pressure sensor 245J, a proximity sensor 245K, a near-field communication (NFC) device 245L, a compass 245M, and a tactile sensor 245N. As described herein, device 102 can perceive/receive various inputs from sensors 245 and such inputs can be used to initiate, enable, and/or enhance various operations and/or aspects thereof, such as is described herein. By way of example, inputs received via GPS receiver 245C can be processed to determine a location of device 102.

It should also be understood that certain aspects and implementations of various devices, systems, servers, platforms, etc., such as those depicted in FIG. 28 and/or described herein, are also described in greater detail below in relation to FIG. 23.

FIG. 15 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more elements thereof). As shown, protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly 1504 having an opening for a neck of a user, the shoulder pad assembly including a chest plate at the front of the shoulder pad assembly, a helmet 1502 configured for placement upon the shoulder pad assembly in a manner that surrounds the opening from above, a collar 1506 affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, wherein the collar, when positioned along at least a portion of a base of the helmet and secured to the chest plate, secures the helmet to the shoulder pad assembly. For example, FIG. 15 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) 1502. As shown in FIG. 15, in certain implementations an ‘open’ (e.g., ‘rugby-style’) inner skull cap/pad 1503 can be worn around the wearer's head in conjunction with the outer helmet 1502. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 15, in certain implementations the shoulder pads 1504 can incorporate or otherwise be equipped with pads/straps 1506 (such as may be affixed/attached to the pads 1504 from the back side) that can be wrapped and/or secured over/across the helmet (e.g., the base of the helmet) and/or the collar, and secured to a chest plate of the shoulder pads 1508 thereby securing the helmet/collar to the shoulder pads.

FIG. 16 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more elements thereof). For example, FIG. 16 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) and shoulder pads. As shown in FIG. 16, in certain implementations the described helmet 1602 can incorporate various perforations 1604, such as on the front of the helmet (e.g., opposite the wearer's mouth/nose), on the sides of the helmet (e.g., opposite the wearer's ears), on the top of the helmet, and/or on any other such surface of the helmet. As shown, in various implementations such perforations/holes can be of varying sizes, arrangements, and/or concentrations. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 16, the shoulder pads 1606 can be designed/configured such that one side/portion (e.g., the flap/side closer to the wearer's right arm 1608B) can be tucked under/into the other side/portion of the shoulder pads 1608A. In doing so, the shoulder pads can be secured to the wearer's body while providing a uniform/smooth surface.

FIG. 17 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more elements thereof). For example, FIG. 17 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) and shoulder pads, such as they may be configured for other uses/settings such as other sports (e.g., hockey). As shown in FIG. 17, a protective cage, grille, or mask 1702 can be incorporated with/attached to the helmet, such as in order to provide additional protection. The shoulder pads 1704 can also be configured or equipped with extra padding to provide additional protection, as shown.

FIG. 18 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more of the elements thereof). For example, FIG. 18 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) 1802 and shoulder pads, such as they may be configured for other uses/settings such as motorcycling (e.g., in order to meet various regulatory requirements/safety guidelines for such helmets, provide additional visibility, ease of movement, comfort, etc.).

FIG. 19 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more of the elements thereof). A protective apparatus includes a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user, and a helmet capable of attachment to the shoulder pad assembly, the helmet having a front portion and a rear portion, wherein the front portion of the helmet, when lowered against the shoulder pads can be secured to the shoulder pad assembly via a locking mechanism. For example, FIG. 19 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) such as may be configured with a vest 1902, as shown. In certain implementations, the helmet 1904 can be affixed directly to a vest that may be worn on the wearer's torso. In certain implementations, in lieu of (and/or in addition to) attaching/detaching the helmet from the vest, the helmet can be arranged, constructed, and/or configured to be retractable, such that, for example, one portion of the helmet 1906A (e.g., the front portion which, when lowered, is opposite the wearer's face) can slide up/back (e.g., above/behind a second portion of the helmet 1906B which otherwise surrounds the wearer's head at all times). A helmet release/trigger 1908 can be situated on the front of the vest and the front portion of the helmet, when lowered in front of the wearer's face, can be attached/secured into such a release, such that the release holds the front portion in place until the release is activated (at which point the front portion can be released/retracted). A belt or brace 1910 (e.g., constructed from Velcro) can wrap around the back and torso of the wearer in order to secure the vest 1902 (and thereby the helmet 1904) to the wearer, as shown.

FIG. 20 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more of the elements thereof). For example, FIG. 20 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) such as may be configured with various types of vests, as shown. In certain implementations, the helmet 2002 can be affixed directly to a first vest 2004A that may be worn on the wearer's torso. In certain implementations, such vests can be configured to further attach to a second vest 2004B (e.g., via a buckle 2008 or other such mechanism) which may be padded (e.g., around the areas of the wearer's shoulders) in order to allow the helmet to rest comfortable when worn (as well as in order to absorb impact). Additionally, in certain implementations adjustable cords 2006 (which, for example, can be positioned under the wearer's arms, thereby securing the front and rear portions of the vest 2004B to one another) can enable the vest to be fitted comfortably to the wearer's body. Additionally, in certain implementations the referenced first vest 2004A can be configured/arranged to wrap around the wearer's torso (and be worn alone, e.g., without second vest 2004B), such as is shown in FIG. 20 (thereby, for example, enabling other clothing, jackets, etc., to be layered on top of it.

FIG. 21 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more elements thereof). For example, FIG. 21 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) 2102A-2102H, such as those that may be configured for skiing and/or other sports. As shown in FIG. 21, the helmet can be configured/arranged with various shapes, which can, for example, enhance the aerodynamic nature of the helmet, the degree of protection (e.g., with respect to various types of impacts, such as may be more or less common in different sports/settings/activities) and the manner in which the helmet can be detached and/or raised from the collar/shoulder pads. For example, helmet 2102C is a helmet with a tinted dome (e.g., in order to protect the wearer's eyes from sunlight). Helmet 2102E is a helmet having a raised top (e.g., to provide added protection). Helmet 2102G is a helmet that is open in the area opposite the wearer's face. Helmets 2102D and 2102H depict helmets having various types of release latch mechanisms 2104 such as are described in detail in relation to FIG. 19. Such mechanisms can, for example, enable the user to quickly secure and/or remove/detach the helmet from the collar/shoulder pads, raise/retract a portion of the helmet, etc.

FIG. 22 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more of the elements thereof). For example, FIG. 22 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s), such as those that may be configured for skiing and/or other sports. As shown in FIG. 22, in certain implementations the collar 2208 and/or shoulder pads can be equipped with multiple releases/latches 2204A, 2204B. As shown, one release/latch 2204A can be configured to raise a portion of the helmet 2202 (such as the forward portion 2206A which may be configured with a hinge 2210 attached to the back portion of the helmet 2206B, such as at the top of the helmet), while another release/latch 2204B can be configured to release the entire helmet 2202 (e.g., front and back portions) from the collar 2208 and/or shoulder pads. In doing so, additional safety/comfort can be afforded to the wearer (e.g., in different situations).

FIG. 24 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more elements thereof). For example, FIG. 24 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s), such as those that may be configured for various uses. As shown in FIG. 24, a rail system 2404 can be configured/attached to the helmet 2402 (e.g., on the side of the helmet) to enable various peripherals/attachments (e.g., an optical/camera device/system 2406, a communication system 2408, etc.) to be attached to and/or otherwise configured in conjunction with the helmet, such that the wearer of the helmet can utilize such technologies while wearing the helmet.

FIG. 25 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more of the elements thereof). For example, FIG. 25 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s), such as those that may be configured for various uses. As shown in FIG. 25, in one implementation helmet 2502A can be arranged, constructed, and/or configured to be retractable, such that, for example, one portion of the helmet 2504A (e.g., the front portion which, when lowered, is opposite the wearer's face, and/or a portion thereof) can flip up/back and/or slide up/back (e.g., above/behind a second portion 2504B of the helmet which otherwise surrounds the wearer's head at all times), such as in a manner depicted and/or described herein. In another implementation, helmet 2502B can include one or more openings 2506, such as in the area of the wearer's mouth, ears, etc., as shown.

FIG. 26 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more of the elements thereof). For example, FIG. 26 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s), such as those that may be configured for various uses. As shown in FIG. 26, the helmets 2602A-D can be configured in various ways (such as are described in relation to FIGS. 24 and 25) and various peripherals/attachments may also be included/incorporated.

FIG. 27 depicts various exemplary arrangements/variations of the described head and neck protection apparatus (and/or one or more elements thereof). For example, FIG. 27 depicts various arrangements/variations on the described helmet(s) 2702A-D, such as those that may be configured for various uses. As shown in FIG. 27, the helmets can be configured in various ways (such as are described in relation to FIGS. 24 and 25) and various peripherals/attachments may also be included/incorporated.

It should also be understood that, in certain implementations, the helmets described/depicted herein (including but not limited to those depicted in FIGS. 24-27 may be pressurized (e.g., in order to provide oxygen, etc. to the wearer, e.g., in an environment where adequate oxygen may not otherwise be available to the wearer). For example, as depicted in FIG. 27, an oxygen tank 2704 can be attached or otherwise configured with helment 2702D, such that the oxygen tank may provide oxygen to the wearer of the helmet and maintain an oxygen level within the helmet. The helmet may also be pressurized in order to prevent outside substances (e.g., gasses) from entering the helmet (e.g., in the event of a crack, leak, etc.)

The various head and neck protection apparatus described herein may be worn by a user participating in a variety of sports or activities such as those in which contact with other participants and/or objects may occur or where there exists a risk of injury to the head/brain, neck, or spine. Examples of such sports or activities include but are not limited to: football, lacrosse, hockey, driving, motor-cross, cycling, riot control, firefighting, etc. The various head and neck protection apparatus described herein would be suitable for various users, including but not limited to: professional athletes, children participating in pee-wee sports or junior sports, and athletes of all ages all the way up through high school and college.

At this juncture it should be noted that while the present disclosure and accompanying figures depict and/or describe various implementations of the present technologies, such presentation is for the sake of clarity and/or brevity and should not be construed as limiting. Thus, for example, the description of various types of helmets and other features should be understood in a manner such that an element depicted and/or described with respect to one implementation can be combined or otherwise associated with a feature, etc., depicted/described with respect to another implementation, and such is intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

The head and neck protection apparatus described herein may protect the user from various injuries, including, but not limited to: injury to the neck from hyper-extension or flexion injuries, direct axial loading injuries, concussions, brain injuries, cervical spine injuries, fractures, ligamentous injuries, spinal cord injuries, and/or paralysis.

Each of the individual variations described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other variations. Modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s) to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events which is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events. Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, every intervening value between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the present disclosure. Also, any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein.

FIG. 23 depicts an illustrative computer system within which a set of instructions, for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, may be executed. In alternative implementations, the machine may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines in a LAN, an intranet, an extranet, or the Internet. The machine may operate in the capacity of a server machine in client-server network environment. The machine may be a computing device integrated within and/or in communication with a vehicle, a personal computer (PC), a set-top box (STB), a server, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

The exemplary computer system 2300 includes a processing system (processor) 2302, a main memory 2304 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, dynamic random access memory (DRAM) such as synchronous DRAM (SDRAM)), a static memory 2306 (e.g., flash memory, static random access memory (SRAM)), and a data storage device 2316, which communicate with each other via a bus 2308.

Processor 2302 represents one or more processing devices such as a microprocessor, central processing unit, or the like. More particularly, the processor 2302 may be a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or a processor implementing other instruction sets or processors implementing a combination of instruction sets. The processor 2302 may also be one or more processing devices such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), network processor, or the like. The processor 2302 is configured to execute instructions 2326 for performing the operations and steps discussed herein.

The computer system 2300 may further include a network interface device 2322. The computer system 2300 also may include a video display unit 2310 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)), an alphanumeric input device 2312 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 2314 (e.g., a mouse), and a signal generation device 2320 (e.g., a speaker).

The data storage device 2316 may include a computer-readable medium 2324 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions 2326 embodying any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. Instructions 2326 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 2304 and/or within the processor 2302 during execution thereof by the computer system 2300, the main memory 2304 and the processor 2302 also constituting computer-readable media. Instructions 2326 may further be transmitted or received over a network via the network interface device 2322.

While the computer-readable storage medium 2324 is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term “computer-readable storage medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable storage medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The term “computer-readable storage medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical media, and magnetic media.

In the above description, numerous details are set forth. It will be apparent, however, to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, that embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to avoid obscuring the description.

Some portions of the detailed description are presented in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on data bits within a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the data processing arts to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is here, and generally, conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like.

It should be borne in mind, however, that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the above discussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description, discussions utilizing terms such as “receiving,” “processing,” “providing,” “selecting,” or the like, refer to the actions and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (e.g., electronic) quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

Aspects and implementations of the disclosure also relate to an apparatus for performing the operations herein. A corresponding computer program may be stored in a computer readable storage medium, such as, but not limited to, any type of disk including floppy disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs, and magnetic-optical disks, read-only memories (ROMs), random access memories (RAMs), EPROMs, EEPROMs, magnetic or optical cards, or any type of media suitable for storing electronic instructions.

The present disclosure is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages may be used to implement the teachings of the disclosure as described herein.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. Moreover, the techniques described above could be applied in many other contexts, settings, and/or industries. The scope of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A protective apparatus comprising: a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user; a supporting element affixed to the shoulder pad assembly, the supporting element being configured to extend above the shoulder pad assembly and to encircle a portion of the opening; one or more clips arranged on the surface of the supporting element; and a helmet comprising one or more first bars that, when engaged within the one or more clips, secure the helmet to the supporting element.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the supporting element comprises an overhang extending downward from a rear portion of the supporting element.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the supporting element comprises an overhang extending downward from a rear portion of the supporting element in a manner that produces a slot at the rear of the supporting element.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the helmet further comprises one or more second bars.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the one or more second bars are affixed to a rear surface of the helmet.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the one or more second bars are affixed to an inner surface of the helmet.
 7. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the one or more second bars are affixed to an inner rear surface of the helmet.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the protective apparatus further comprises one or more communication devices.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more clips comprises a hook and a lever.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the lever, when raised, raises the hook above at least one of the one or more first bars.
 11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the lever, when raised, raises the hook above at least one of the one or more first bars to enable the hook to engage the at least one of the one or more first bars.
 12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the lever, when lowered, lowers the hook to secure at least one of the one or more first bars.
 13. A protective apparatus comprising: a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user; a wire having two ends, the wire arranged to surround the opening, each of the two ends being secured to a lever that is affixed to the shoulder pad assembly; one or more locking mechanisms affixed to the shoulder pad assembly; and a helmet having one or more bars configured for insertion into the one or more locking mechanisms; wherein, upon insertion of the one or more bars into the one or more locking mechanisms and upon a raising of the lever, the helmet is secured to the shoulder pad assembly.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein upon a lowering of the lever, the helmet is unsecured from the shoulder pad assembly.
 15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein upon a lowering of the lever, the locking mechanism is released.
 16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the protective apparatus further comprises one or more communication devices.
 17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the protective apparatus further comprises a collar.
 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the collar is configured to be positioned in between a base of the helmet and an outer surface of the shoulder pad assembly.
 19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the collar includes shock-absorbing material.
 20. A protective apparatus comprising: a shoulder pad assembly having an opening for a neck of a user, the shoulder pad assembly comprising a chest plate at the front of the shoulder pad assembly; a helmet configured for placement upon the shoulder pad assembly in a manner that surrounds the opening from above; and a collar affixed to the shoulder pad assembly; wherein the collar, when positioned along at least a portion of a base of the helmet and secured to the chest plate, secures the helmet to the shoulder pad assembly. 